“I stayed with my grandparents in the village, my father took me there to adapt the village life.
HPU and Flying Fijians Under-20 Eroni Sarasau. PHOTO: Sereana Salalo
Eroni Sarasau did not regret forfeiting his studies to play rugby.
The 19-year-old tight head prop opted to represent the country when in the national Under-20 squad.
The Lomati, Nabukelevu, Kadavu has set his goal to make things right in 2025; he shares maternal links to Rotuma.
“I was supposed to join the university, but then we had tours this year, so I just went for the tour,” the former Marist Brothers High School student said.
“It’s a tough decision to make because juggling both education and rugby is a bit tight, so I chose rugby.”
Sarasau has been a member of the Fiji Rugby Union High Performance Unit the last three years.
He also plays for the Naitasiri Under-20 side.
“For 2025, I want to make things happen that they didn’t happen this year.
“We want to create history next year with the team.”
Sarasau would like to follow in the footsteps of his uncle Etonia Waqa and secure a professional rugby contract; they are from the same village.
He added that basics was key for his position.
“Individually you have to know all your stunt and techniques, if you want to dominate everything, you just have to know every single bit more,” he said.
“Mesake Doge is the prop that I admire, his footings are not like others. He’s different.”
Sarasau indicated being part of the HPU has taught him a lot about rugby especially transitioning from high school to provincial rugby.
“I have known the difference between high school, provincial and national level. Once you go into a national level, you have a big shoe to fill in, so you have to prepare yourself mentally and physically to counter that.
“I started playing for Naitasiri when I was 16 years old and aiming for the senior team next year even though I’ll be 20.”
Sarasau acknowledged his parents support and also his grandparents in Kadavu.
“They’ve been there with me from when I started playing when I was eight years old.
“I stayed with my grandparents in the village, my father took me there to adapt the village life.
Sarasau completed his primary school education in Kadavu before he joined Ratu Kadavulevu School in Year 9.
Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj
